Proverbs 11
Monday, 8 March 2021
“A gracious woman attains honor…..” -Proverbs 11:16
The role of a godly woman in the home, church and the society at large is never to be underestimated and the focus of our meditation today on a ‘gracious woman.’ In a world where both the extremes exist- one of degrading the woman and the other, the feminists, who magnify their importance, the real value of a woman is known through the Creator’s handbook – the Bible!
Let us first look at how the first woman came into being. It is written in Genesis 1:27 that “God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” So both man and woman were created in the image of God. However, in Gen. 2:18, God said that it was not good for man to be alone and declared that He will make a suitable companion for man. Gen2:21-22 describes the detailed account of how woman was created. God took a rib of man and formed a woman– the bone from the middle portion of the body – conveying that man and woman are equal in status. She is not under or above man! Nevertheless, there are differences between them – physically, emotionally and functionally. But these differences become complementary when both man and woman abide by the solemn purpose for them declared by God in Gen2:24 “…and they shall become one flesh.”
Our key verse says: A GRACIOUS WOMAN attains honour. A gracious woman is a godly woman—a woman of God whose first concern will be to please God. A godly woman does not mean a perfect woman. Godliness is not measured by comparison to others, but it is based on her commitment to her Saviour, Christ Jesus. Her godliness will be revealed in various ways such as:
A Wise & Prayerful nature – A wise woman would know the power of prayer that can transform her, her marriage, her husband and children; the various circumstances that beset her. The tool of prayer is better than arguing, pleading, ignoring, debating or even the silent treatment! Be Wise: Prov.14:1
Loving attitude – Every man’s (woman’s) way is right in his (her) own eyes (Prov.21:2), but only God can give us true discernment. If you think that your husband has made a wrong choice, you can offer advice to him but trying to mend him- it’s better to allow God to do that. Your job is to love him and pray so that the fear of the Lord will take deep root in him and give him understanding (Prov.9:10). Be Gracious: Proverbs 11:16
Submissive character - In a marriage relationship, women are subject to their own husband’s headship (Col. 3:18). Submission doesn’t mean to be dominated but it shows humility, yielding to another’s desire without resistance. It means putting him first after God. Be Submissive: Eph.5:22
Affectionate behaviour – Husband and wife need to render due affection to each other(1Cor.7:3) and if in your marriage there is a lack of affection then you need to pray so that the Holy Spirit may transform you first. Show it by example. Be Affectionate: Eph.4:31-32
Inner beauty – The beauty of a woman lies in the gentle and quiet spirit (1Peter 3:9), dressed in a modest and respectable way. Beauty without discretion is worthless (vs.22). Be Holy:1Peter 3:5
Prudence – Prudence can be defined as wise in handling practical matters; exercising good judgment. She knows to manage her time/resources well.(Prov.31:27) She has a clear, overall view and understanding of the daily operation of her home. At the end of the day, she takes time to thank God for that day (Prov. 31:10-31). Be Prudent: Prov.19:14
May you take time to pray that God will enable you to demonstrate godliness in life.
Think on it:
“Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.”
(Proverbs 31:30)